So you decided it’s time to immigrate to Canada? The first thing you have to do is to apply for the appropriate visa. You can lodge the application yourself which can become a time-consuming hassle or you can hire an immigration consultant to help you with this procedure. An immigration consultant is someone who will help and advise you throughout the process of obtaining your Canadian visa. The consultant is fully trained and knowledgeable in the requirements of applying for a visa and thus will guide you through your application process with ease. You will, of course, be charged consulting fees and costs may vary depending on the services and extent of the consultant’s involvement in the immigration process. So why should you be using an immigration consultant?

1. Save Time and Money
An immigration consultant can save you time and money and will let you know which Canadian visa is appropriate for you. The consultant will be there every step of the way throughout the whole process. Obtaining a visa can be much easier and faster using the services of an immigration consultant. When choosing an immigration consultant, you should ask questions like “What are your visa options?”

2. Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants are educated and informed
Since 2004, consultants have become authorized immigrations consultants that have been required to complete an accredited program. An accredited program provides consultants with important information regarding immigration law in Canada and proper procedures regarding applications with citizenship and immigration in Canada. Additionally, members of the council are kept informed on new information and developments in the immigration field. Consultants are required to complete ongoing professional development and practice management education.Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants, or RCICs, are legally authorized representatives and members in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council.

3. Canadian Immigration Consultants are insured
Members of the Council are required to obtain errors and omission insurance, which protects applicants against unintended action that may cause financial damage.This is for the protection of the consumer and the consultant – even the best of us can make a mistake that can be detrimental to the client. If a client feels that the consultant did not act in his best interest and that his/her actions caused him damage, he/she has the right to file a complaint to ICCRC and after investigation, ICCRC suggests the client and the consultant how to settle the dispute.

4. Canadian Immigration Consultants are required to follow stringent ethical and professional guidelines.
Council members and consultants are subject to a Code of Ethical Conduct that stipulates proper procedures for their practice. The Code requires all to adhere to stringent rules, including those regarding quality service, professionalism, ethical practice, and confidentiality. Breaching these codes is considered an act of non-compliance. It is taken seriously and dealt with immediately with importance by the Council. Additionally, members of the council must provide evidence of good character before becoming regulated, including submitting a police clearance record.

5. Should you hire an Immigration Consultant?
This depends on where you really need one. If you need help filling in the forms or need a translation, then you should consider hiring an immigration consultant. Immigration consultants will provide valuable service making your visa application much easier than doing it yourself. Consultants can get your application submitted correctly the first time around, meaning that you have the greatest chance of success and your application is optimized correctly. You will be able to keep track with your consultant on the status of your application and will be able to understand everything regarding your application.

So if you have decided to hire an immigration consultant, consider doing as much research as possible. Ask for referrals, search the internet and start your Canadian visa application today.